What to Know About Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can lead to personal injury legal claims from all involved parties. It is imperative that you understand your rights as more and more commuters use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. When a person sustains injuries in a rideshare accident, they may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, etc. Here's a breakdown of what you should know if you were to suffer an injury due to a rideshare accident:
1. Negligence: If the accident occurred due to the negligence of the rideshare driver or another party involved, the injured individual may have a valid claim. Negligence can include actions such as reckless driving, running red lights, speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Driver Liability: Rideshare drivers are typically considered independent contractors, but when they are actively engaged in providing rideshare services, the rideshare company may be held liable for their actions. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft often carry liability insurance to cover accidents caused by their drivers. Newer rideshare companies like Alto have begun to recruit drivers as dedicated employees, so they would not be considered independent contractors.
3. Insurance Coverage: Rideshare companies typically provide insurance coverage for their drivers, passengers, and third parties involved in accidents. Depending on the circumstances, different insurance policies may apply, such as the driver's personal insurance, the rideshare company's commercial insurance, or a combination of both. Determining the applicable insurance coverage and filing claims can be complex, requiring the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney like Larry Parks, which will investigate on your behalf.
4. Comparative Fault: In some cases, both the rideshare driver and the injured party may share some degree of fault for the accident. Comparative fault laws vary by jurisdiction, but they generally allow injured individuals to still recover damages even if they were partially responsible for the accident. The amount of compensation can change based on the degree of fault assigned to each party involved.
5. Product Liability: If the accident was caused by a defect in the rideshare vehicle or its components, the injured person may have a product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer or other parties involved in the vehicle's design, manufacturing, or maintenance.
6. Inadequate Background Checks: If the rideshare company failed to conduct proper background checks on its drivers, and it is later revealed that the driver had a history of reckless driving or other issues that should have disqualified them, the injured person may have a claim against the rideshare company for negligent hiring or supervision.
To pursue a personal injury claim arising from a rideshare accident, contact us right away. We can help assess the specifics of the case, determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and guide you through the legal process to seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.